Director of Sales – Space & Fusion Energy Optics

Director of Sales – Space & Fusion Energy Optics

We design, develop and manufacture optics for satellite imaging and communications, aspheric mirrors for high energy lasers, and specialize in the use of Silicon Carbide materials for extreme performance applications.

AOS optics are deployed around the world in aerospace imaging systems, industrial scanners, research facilities using advanced lasers, and remote sensing applications. Our customers are researchers, product developers & technologists. We add value by providing rare expertise in robotic optical fabrication, design for manufacturability and assembly, and verifying product performance using optical metrology.

We are an independent US-owned corporation located in Central Connecticut with partners in Europe and Asia. The name comes from the term “Aperture”, an opening enabling the passage of light, and symbolizes what we provide our customers and employees–a pathway fornew ideas and creative solutions using light.

Aperture Optical Sciences (AOS) is seeking a strategic and technically sophisticated Director of Sales to lead revenue growth across our space-based imaging and fusion energy optics markets. Reporting directly to the President/CEO, this executive-level role is responsible for planning and executing both short- and long-range sales strategies while personally engaging in high-value business development activities.

As a member of the senior leadership team, the Director of Sales is expected to embody company values, provide market-driven strategic insight, and lead by example in cultivating a high-performance, customer-focused culture. This individual will oversee the full sales lifecycle—from market visibility and opportunity development through proposal generation, negotiation, and contract award—while building and leading a world-class sales and applications engineering team.

Sales at AOS is consultative, technical, and solution-driven. It begins with establishing visible industry leadership through trade shows, publications, digital outreach, and strategic engagement. Opportunities are assessed for business viability and technical fit. Converting customer requests into funded programs requires discovery, education, and collaborative solution development.

Scope definition includes cost estimation, historical comparative analysis, and competitive positioning. Proposals are comprehensive, addressing deliverables, quality standards, technical performance, and value proposition. Closing activities include follow-up meetings, negotiations, and purchase order execution.

The Director of Sales owns and continuously improves this process.

Develop and implement strategic marketing and sales plans to achieve corporate revenue, profitability, and market share objectives.

Direct sales forecasting activities and establish performance goals aligned with corporate strategy.

Achieve targeted profit/loss ratios and market share objectives in alignment with industry and economic conditions.

Oversee market research efforts and adjust strategy to evolving competitive landscapes.

Monitor competitor products, positioning, and commercial strategies.

Solicit and process customer RFQs; develop scope of work, pricing strategies, and delivery commitments that drive order conversion.

Meet directly with key clients to negotiate, close, and expand strategic relationships.

Build and nurture executive-level relationships within key space and fusion energy organizations.

Establish and maintain relationships with industry influencers, strategic partners, and trade associations.

Represent AOS at conferences, trade events, and…